Swinney Says Scottish Government Does Not Back Ban on New Oil and Gas

First Minister John Swinney has said the Scottish Government does not support a potential ban on new oil and gas developments. The UK Government's draft Energy Independence Bill would enact a ban on new North Sea oil and gas exploration, a proposal that drew criticism from the industry and from the Prime Minister's opponents.

Speaking at First Minister's Questions, Swinney said applications should be considered for their impact on carbon reduction targets. He added that the Scottish Government backs some measures in the bill, including those on fuel poverty and renewables capacity, while stopping short of endorsing a blanket prohibition on new North Sea licences.

Reform UK's Malcolm Offord accused him of a U-turn, while Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay urged MPs to vote against the drilling ban. The exchange highlights a growing split over North Sea policy, with the energy transition, jobs and fuel bills all at stake as the bill moves through Westminster.